Rheology Modifiers / Viscosity Modifiers / Thickeners

Rheology/viscosity modifiers are added to raise or control the viscosity and flow of the adhesive/sealant without changing the total solid content. Apart from modifying the viscosity, rheology/viscosity modifiers also improve the suspension of formulation ingredients, coating characteristics, stability and moisture retention of the adhesive/sealant. Rheology/ viscosity modifiers are added to adhesives that are applied as coatings (pressure sensitive adhesives, laminating adhesives) and those which should not sag before curing. They can be classified as organic and inorganic and are considered to be either pseudoplastic or thixotropic in nature.